As the style editor at Reviewed, I always stay up-to-date on all of the latest trends. Perhaps the one trend I've loved the most is the rise of the casual sneaker, especially the cult-favorite Veja sneakers. After seeing a slew of Instagram ads for them, I finally broke down and got two pairs for myself—the best-selling Esplar sneakers and the V-10s—to see what the hype was all about. Here's my honest review of the Veja shoes that everyone's obsessed with and whether or not they're worth the money.
Veja V-10 Sneaker
The V-10s have that classic sneaker look that can be worn with virtually anything
$165 at Nordstrom
Veja Esplar Sneaker
The Esplar design has a lower profile and slightly less support than the V-10s.
$150 at Nordstrom
Why are Veja sneakers so popular?
Maybe it's the sleek white design or the iconic "V" logo stitched on the side, which comes in every color from basic black to neon yellow. Or maybe it's the fact that Veja was the first sustainable sneaker brand in the world, making way for other popular kicks like Allbirds and Cariuma sneakers. Its shoes are made with high-quality recycled materials, organic cotton, and sustainably-sourced leather.
Whatever it is, there's no denying that the French footwear brand—which sells over two million pairs of sneakers per year—has quite the cult following. Some of its most famous fans include the likes of Meghan Markle, Reese Witherspoon, Katie Holmes, and Emma Watson.
What I love about Veja sneakers
Fact: I've never felt more cool or more trendy as I did when I put on my new Vejas. The minimalist aesthetic, accentuated with the bold black "V," has that effortless French je ne sais quoi that I've never been stylish enough to pull off on my own, but with these new sneakers, I totally can. They're both subtle and eye-catching and can instantly elevate even the most casual of outfits. I got tons of compliments on them the first time I wore them, even from friends (and my dad!) who had never heard of Veja but liked the look.
More importantly, the Veja sneakers are surprisingly comfortable. Some customers seem to be split on the comfortability of these shoes, so let me clarify a few things. The sole provides an appropriate amount of cushioning and support, so my feet didn't ache after walking in them all day. However, they may take some time to break-in and should not be expected to feel as comfortable as a regular running shoe.
When it came to sizing I was a little worried, but the Veja sneakers did not disappoint. I have wider feet so I sometimes have problems with sizing, but these were forgiving enough that my foot didn't feel squished. And they weren't too big that I felt like I was slipping out of them (I wear a size 8 and these fit true to size).
What I don't like about Veja sneakers
As stylish as it may be, when it comes down to it, leather will never be the most comfortable material for a pair of shoes. Let's be honest: Even the world's highest quality leather couldn't compete with the worn-in comfort of canvas or cotton. Vejas offer great support and a well-cushioned footbed, but they're lacking in flexibility and freedom of movement due to the somewhat stiff leather exterior. Even after breaking them in, they still weren't as flexible as I prefer in a pair of walking shoes. This wouldn't deter me from recommending them—but it's something to consider when you're debating buying them for yourself.
After wearing them for a few months, I have also learned that they aren't the most breathable sneakers in the world. My feet get sweaty in them very easily, and if I wear them for a couple of hours walking around, my socks are soaked to the point I have to change them out for a fresh pair.
Are Veja sneakers worth buying?
If you're willing to spend a little extra on a quality pair of casual shoes, then yes, I recommend Veja sneakers. To be totally honest, I think they're worth the $120 for the brand recognition alone—i.e. unlike some shoes (like Keds) that you can easily buy knock-off versions of, there is no alternative to the unique design and branding of the Veja sneaks. They're also decently comfortable and very versatile, so you'll get a lot of wear out of them.
I wouldn't recommend Veja sneakers for those who want to specifically use them for walking. I can happily wear my Vejas for running errands, shopping, or general everyday life, but if you're walking miles and miles every single day, you might want to look elsewhere for a shoe that's a little heavier duty and flexible, like the very popular Allbirds, which some of our staff own and love.
What are the most popular types of Veja shoes?
Veja offers nearly 20 different styles of women’s shoes to choose from, with the V-10 and Esplar designs (the two that I purchased), as well as the V-LOCK and Campo styles being some of the most popular options.
V-10
The V-10s have that classic sneaker look that can be worn with virtually anything. Their appeal stems from their versatility as they can effortlessly pair well with leggings or jeans, and they’re the perfect option when you want to wear some comfortable (yet cute) shoes with your favorite summer dress.
Veja V-10 Sneaker
The V-10s have that classic sneaker look that can be worn with virtually anything.
$165 at Nordstrom
Campo
When looking at the Veja Campo sneakers it may be hard to distinguish them from the Esplars. They greatly resemble one another, but they do have a few key differences. The Campos run a little wider and have a slightly thicker sole as opposed to the narrow design of the Esplar sneakers.
Veja Campos Sneaker
The Campos run a little wider and have a slightly thicker sole.
$175 at Nordstrom
Esplar
The Esplar design has a lower profile and slightly less support than the V-10s. They may not be quite as flexible and can take a little time to break-in, but if you’re a fan of a less bulky sneaker, then these may be the style that you’re more fond of.
Veja Esplar Sneaker
The Esplar design has a lower profile and slightly less support than the V-10s.
$150 at Nordstrom
Recife
This style has a similar look to the V-10s, but the Veja Recife shoes have 3 velcro straps rather than traditional laces. This change in design gives somewhat of a 90s vibe to the shoe and can make it slightly easier to slip them on and off if you’re running out the door in a hurry.
Veja Recife Sneakers
The Veja Recife shoes have 3 velcro straps rather than traditional laces.
$185 at Free People
What size Veja sneakers should you get?
Veja only sells shoes in whole sizes, and the brand’s recommendation is to size down if you’re in between sizes. However, I’d recommend looking at the specific size chart for the shoe style that you intend to purchase before finalizing your decision.
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Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.
FAQs
Their appeal stems from their versatility as they can effortlessly pair well with leggings or jeans, and they're the perfect option when you want to wear some comfortable (yet cute) shoes with your favorite summer dress. The V-10s have that classic sneaker look that can be worn with virtually anything.
Which Veja does Meghan Markle wear? ›
Veja V-10 Lace Up Sneakers
The duch*ess of Sussex and the Princess of Wales both love Veja sneakers.
What is the Veja controversy? ›
Last October, Veja was tried for electoral fraud and forced to immediately remove any online reference to a special edition released on the eve the Presidential elections that erroneously accused Dilma Rousseff and Lula of direct involvement in scandal involving the state Petroleum company.
What is the most comfortable style of Veja sneakers? ›
Many people find the Campos to be the most comfortable Veja style due to the slightly higher footbed and more support they provide.
What makes Veja so expensive? ›
Our VEJA sneakers cost 5 times more to produce than big brand sneakers. Because we use fair trade and organic raw materials, because they are more economically equitable for all parties involved in the production chain, because we invest in research and new technologies.
Which celebrity wears VEJA? ›
Emily Ratajkowski, Chloe Grace Moretz, and Emma Watson are also on the growing list of Veja's famous fans. It's rare to see so many A-listers gravitating to shoes that are less than $500. But it's easy to see why they're all so into this on-trend pair.
Who is VEJA target audience? ›
veja-store.com Audience Demographics
veja-store.com's audience is 37.38% male and 62.62% female. The largest age group of visitors are 25 - 34 year olds (Desktop).
What sneaker does Kate Middleton wear? ›
Kate Middleton's Superga sneakers are the perfect everyday essential to add to your spring wardrobe. Whether you are going to the office, running errands, or on a weekend getaway, the cotton classic look great with jeans, shorts and dresses. You can also get the Superga 2750 Cotu Sneaker in multiple colors.
What shoes does Oprah wear? ›
When Oprah Winfrey finds a product she loves, she doesn't just shout about it from the rooftops; she reaches an even larger audience by featuring it on her Favorite Things List. And, based on the number of times they've been featured, it's clear Winfrey is a big fan of Vionic shoes.
What sneakers was Princess Diana wearing? ›
Princess Diana in 1986. Diana was photographed on several occasions donning the timeless Chuck Taylor All-Stars. In 1986, she attended a polo wearing the statement sneakers with a pink sweater, baggy jeans, and a preppy bandana.
Since VEJA was created, its sneakers have always been made in the same place: Brazil. We produce our sneakers both in the Northeast and the Southern of Brazil.
Why is it called Veja? ›
The word 'veja' is a literal translation of the Portuguese-Brazilian for 'look' – "It means: 'look beyond the sneakers, look how they are made'," explains Morillion.
Should I size up or down in Veja? ›
VEJA sneakers generally fit true to size, so take your normal size. If you're in doubt, or between sizes, take the smaller size. You can always order two sizes and try both on before sending one back with VEJA's free returns policy.
Do Veja sneakers have arch support? ›
Other than the tongue, they don't need breaking in whatsoever. They have great arch support, the soles are elevated providing all the support you need for a long day of walking.
Should I size down in Veja sneakers? ›
Veja sneakers fit true to size, which makes the whole process relatively simple. Nevertheless, the styles come up a little large, so if you are between two sizes, it is better to take a size down, so if you usually wear an EU 42.5 size go down half a size and buy an EU 42.
Is VEJA a Korean brand? ›
Founding (2004) Veja was founded in 2004. Veja's founders Sébastien Kopp and François-Ghislain Morillion met with organic cotton farmers in North Brazil and wild rubber tappers in the Amazon (Seringueiros) to establish the production chain behind Veja in Brazil.
Is VEJA a premium brand? ›
Made in Brazil, all of the Veja sneakers are of premium quality, meaning they have been made to last.
Is VEJA fake leather? ›
The bovine leather we use at VEJA comes from farms in Uruguay, a country known for its culture of animal husbandry and the quality of its leather. It is tanned in Brazil, without using any hazardous or prohibited chemicals. VEJA uses conventional dyes that comply with regulations.
When did Meghan Markle wear Veja? ›
Meghan Markle wore Veja's sustainable V-10 sneakers while on tour in Australia with Prince Harry in 2018.
Can I wear Vejas to work? ›
Veja Sneakers are definitely one of the best and comfortable sneakers to wear to the office! These high quality shoes are perfect for a long day at work, providing both comfort and offering a chic design.
A classic way to wear these sneakers is with a sweater and a pair of jeans.
What is the meaning of Veja? ›
v. vex, anger, irritate. Veja.
Is Veja fast fashion? ›
Veja is a slow fashion brand, only designing and producing up to three new products a year, in contrast to the competition mostly made of large fast-fashion retailers.
What country makes Veja sneakers? ›
VEJA sneakers are produced in high-standard factories in Brazil. The logistics of our VEJA stores in Europe and e-commerce are managed by Log'ins, a professional and social inclusion company.
What sneakers did Meghan Markle wear? ›
Adidas Stan Smiths have been a customer-loved shoe for decades, and Markle has been spotted wearing the classic sneaker on repeat.
What brand of shoe does Queen Elizabeth wear? ›
Handmade by London-based footwear company, Anello & Davide, each and every one of the Queen's shoes were reportedly made by a dedicated team—including a pattern cutter, a clicker (a person in charge of selecting the leather), a closer (who sews the shoe's upper and stiffens the shoe) and a maker, who topped it all off ...
What brand of shoes does Camilla wear? ›
It has been revealed that the Queen's favorite shoe brand is Sole Bliss, a brand that specializes in making comfortable shoes for wider feet or feet with bunions. "Three layers of underfoot cushioning protect and comfort the soles of your feet.
What shoes does Jennifer Aniston wear? ›
Aside from being an Aniston-loved sneaker, wearers love the New Balance 327 shoes for their comfortable cushioned support and stylish, vintage nod. The everyday sneakers offer an angular revamping of New Balance's fan-favorite wedge that allows you to dress them up or down.
What shoes does Elon Musk wear? ›
Elon Musk: Nike Lunar Flyknit HTM NRG
It's hard to be sure, but Business Insider and Flight Club think Musk, the Tesla CEO, is wearing the Nike Lunar Flyknit HTM NRG, a shoe created by the renowned design trio of Hiroshi Fujiwara, Tinker Hatfield, and Mark Parker.
What shoes does Reese Witherspoon wear? ›
Reese Witherspoon's Draper James and Tretorn Debut New Collection of Spring-Ready Sneakers. Following a successful collaboration last year, the star's Southern style-inspired fashion label has teamed again with the Swedish shoe brand on cool kicks.
It has been revealed that the Queen's favorite shoe brand is Sole Bliss (opens in new tab), a brand that specializes in making comfortable shoes for wider feet or feet with bunions. "Three layers of underfoot cushioning protect and comfort the soles of your feet.
What was on Meghan Markle's shoe? ›
Many people were left curious if the overlapping three straight lines and one curved line were a personalised emblem, or possibly even a tribute to the Queen. However, those in the fashion industry quickly identified the P and A markings as the logo of Paul Andrew.
What make of shoes does Prince Charles wear? ›
A proud shoe designer will be keeping an eye on the King's feet during the coronation - as the monarch sports a £3,500 pair of handmade pumps made by his firm. Gaziano & Girling, founded less than 20 years ago, has been supplying the King since he visited its headquarters in Balfour Street four years ago.
What does Veja sneakers means? ›
Fun fact: it turns out that 'Veja' is actually Portuguese for 'look' and, according to the brand's website, is a nod to how the label is dedicated to "looking beyond the sneakers, looking at how they're made." Yep, Veja's brand is all about transparency, fair trade and using organic materials - but more on that later.
Does VEJA mean old? ›
It does mean "old woman" but I often hear it as a familiar term of endearment(mexican slang mostly). My boyfriend calls me vieja loca(crazy old woman).
Is VEJA for girls? ›
Kids trainers | Shoes for boys and girls | VEJA KIDS.
Can you put Vejas in the washing machine? ›
We remind you that the VEJA should not be cleaned in the washing machine. VEJA declines all responsibility following machine washing.
Who owns VEJA? ›
Biography. Childhood friends Sebastien Kopp and François-Ghislain Morillion founded sustainable shoe brand Veja in 2004, for which Kopp is the creative director and Morillion the sourcing director. The brand manufactures its products in Brazil, made from organic cotton, wild rubber and recycled polyester fabrics.
Do Vejas stretch? ›
Since the VEJA uses both vegan and animal leather, the Esplar does tend to stretch a little.
Who is the CEO of VEJA? ›
Laure BROWNE - Group CEO - VEJA | LinkedIn.
In 2004, two friends and sneakerheads, Sébastien Kopp and François-Ghislain Morillion, founded the brand Veja in Paris.
What is the market share of VEJA? ›
All in all, 2% of sneakers users in the United States use VEJA. That means, of the 21% who know the brand, 10% use them.
Do Vejas get softer? ›
Like the V10's, it is quite stiff to begin with, mainly around the heel and tongue, but they will soften as you wear them. Veja doesn't use petroleum based products in their materials, instead they tan and dye their leather using vegetables, how cool! THE FIT: The V15 is a new style from Veja and are true to size!
How long do Vejas take to break in? ›
How To Break In Veja Sneakers. I'd say it took 5-10 wears…at least… to fully break them in. You have to be committed to breaking them in or they will never be comfortable. If you don't want to take the time, I would honestly skip buying them.
What size should I order in VEJA shoes? ›
Generally, VEJA sneakers are true to size, so we would recommend going for your typical size. As with most leather footwear, it may take a few wears to mould to the unique shape of your foot. If you are in between two sizes, we suggest choosing the smaller size!
Does Meghan Markle wear VEJA? ›
The line has become a celebrity favorite since Markle was snapped wearing the casual footwear during a royal visit to Australia with husband, Prince Harry, in 2018.
Do Vejas have a wide toe box? ›
Veja Campos have quite a wide toe box so they should suit women with wide feet as well as standard width.
Why does everyone love VEJA sneakers? ›
Their appeal stems from their versatility as they can effortlessly pair well with leggings or jeans, and they're the perfect option when you want to wear some comfortable (yet cute) shoes with your favorite summer dress. The V-10s have that classic sneaker look that can be worn with virtually anything.
Why are Vejas so expensive? ›
Our VEJA sneakers cost 5 times more to produce than big brand sneakers. Because we use fair trade and organic raw materials, because they are more economically equitable for all parties involved in the production chain, because we invest in research and new technologies.
Do you have to break Vejas in? ›
The importance or breaking in Veja sneakers at home:
All it really takes to break in Vejas is wearing them around the house for a day or two before doing any substantial walking. And I have extremely sensitive feet. I also recommend bending them every which way.
veja-store.com's audience is 37.38% male and 62.62% female.
Are VEJA shoes plastic? ›
VEJA is the first sneaker brand to use fabric entirely made from recycled plastic bottles and recycled polyester.
What is the VEJA controversy? ›
Last October, Veja was tried for electoral fraud and forced to immediately remove any online reference to a special edition released on the eve the Presidential elections that erroneously accused Dilma Rousseff and Lula of direct involvement in scandal involving the state Petroleum company.
What are VEJA v10 made of? ›
A 100% organic cotton canvas, coated with P.U., corn starch and ricinus oil.
Is VEJA full grain leather? ›
Veja is dedicated to responsible manufacturing and fair-trade practices. These versatile 'Campo' sneakers have chrome-free full-grain leather uppers and are lined in an organic cotton and recycled polyester-blend. The soles are made from wild rubber that's sourced in partnership with Amazonian communities.
Is Veja fake leather? ›
The bovine leather we use at VEJA comes from farms in Uruguay, a country known for its culture of animal husbandry and the quality of its leather. It is tanned in Brazil, without using any hazardous or prohibited chemicals. VEJA uses conventional dyes that comply with regulations.
Can I wear Veja sneakers to work? ›
Veja Sneakers are definitely one of the best and comfortable sneakers to wear to the office! These high quality shoes are perfect for a long day at work, providing both comfort and offering a chic design. For me, I gravitated towards the natural color Esplar Logo shoes.
When did Meghan Markle wear VEJA? ›
Meghan Markle wore Veja's sustainable V-10 sneakers while on tour in Australia with Prince Harry in 2018.
Should I size up or down in VEJA? ›
VEJA sneakers generally fit true to size, so take your normal size. If you're in doubt, or between sizes, take the smaller size. You can always order two sizes and try both on before sending one back with VEJA's free returns policy.
What shoes does Greta Thunberg wear? ›
Veja is a fashion company that produces sneakers. According to GQ magazine, Greta Thunberg could wear Veja sneakers without feeling guilty. Veja claims to have sold over 2 million pairs of shoes between 85 and 250 euros. _ Eco-design in the fashion world.
Since VEJA was created, its sneakers have always been made in the same place: Brazil. We produce our sneakers both in the Northeast and the Southern of Brazil.
Is VEJA French or Brazilian? ›
Veja is a French footwear and accessories brand. In Brazil the brand goes by the name of Vert due to name similarities with the magazine Veja. As of October 2018, Veja supplied its shoes to 1,800 retailers in 45 countries. They sold 550,000 pairs of shoes, generating $21 million in revenues in 2017.
What does the Spanish word VEJA mean? ›
v. vex, anger, irritate. Veja. vejar⇒ vtr (maltratar) harass, humiliate vtr El preso vejaba a su compañero de celda.
Do Vejas have arch support? ›
Other than the tongue, they don't need breaking in whatsoever. They have great arch support, the soles are elevated providing all the support you need for a long day of walking.
Can you wear VEJA in the rain? ›
Yes, you can wear your luxury leather shoes in the rain!
Does VEJA stretch over time? ›
Since the VEJA uses both vegan and animal leather, the Esplar does tend to stretch a little.
